New key from keycode?

powrguy

New member
I bought a 1998 T4R, and the only key I got with it (I got the remote fob, too, and it works) is the Valet Key, which doesn't work in the glovebox, and the key is VERY worn. It works, but they couldn't duplicate the key successfully at the hardware store, as it wouldn't operate without extreme maneuvering/fiddling in the ignition, and wouldn't work at all in the door locks.

That said, has anyone had any luck getting the keycode from the passenger lock cylinder, and then having a key cut for LESS than $100? Locksmiths I've checked with all want at least $100 to cut the key IF I get the key code, and what are my options?


thanks
:violin:
 
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Go to a toyota dealer with your title for the truck and have them cut a key from the VIN. I did that with my 4runner and daughters Camry, I think it was $12 a key. If you have a "chipped" key then all bets are off...
 
Dealer Key Code cuts

Go to a toyota dealer with your title for the truck and have them cut a key from the VIN. I did that with my 4runner and daughters Camry, I think it was $12 a key. If you have a "chipped" key then all bets are off...

That would be great, but they only go back 10 years on that, they've told me.


thanks
 
That would be great, but they only go back 10 years on that, they've told me.


thanks


Just 2 weeks ago I had the Camry key cut and that is a 1997, the parts counter guy didn't even flinch when I gave him the year. Maybe try another dealer or just show up if one is close enough?
 
Not sure if these 4Runners are like this, but I know on the MK3 Supras the keycode is printed on the passenger side key lock cylinder. I would think they would still be able to pull the code for a 3rd gen in the computers, but maybe not. I know they could not for my 87 Supra when I asked about it a few years ago.
 
I bought two blanks and got the key code from the dealer two months ago for our 97 limited.

They didn't charge me to look up the key code.
 
Not all dealers are the same, some do only go back a certain amount of time. If you are one of the unlucky ones and your dealers in the area don't go back all the way then your choice is a locksmith. They can get the cuts a couple different ways. Yes, one way is by the codes on the passanger door lock and sometimes even on the glovebox lock. If it's a chipped key then they will charge about 30 for the key and 45 or so to program. You can add a key if you already have the original, it's an easy multi step process, press peddle, turn ignition, unlock locks
Etc.. If you don't have an original key you HAVE to have the locksmith program. They best way to get this done is if you have AAA insurance. Or know someone who does, and is willing to be on site when the key is made. If you go AAA route then most likely they will come to you and do the job, and give you a discount depending on the type of AAA membership you have. And a title in your name

Always when getting a brand new key cut you run the possibility of the key not fitting right anymore. New key old "wafers" I. The ignition, so I suggest you just take it to a locksmith and have them put new wafers in the ignition, (minus the split ones) and a locksmith can explain why that's a good idea. Also while he is replacing the wafers he now knows the key cuts and can easily cut a new key. Last thing you want to do is write the key cuts down on some files you keep for your rig, then whenever you want a new key or you lose a key you can just tell them to cut a 3,4,2,4,3,1 cut key, and be done with it.

Also the only way you get good cuts is if the ignition has never been changed, only if all equipment is original will the code on the locks help In getting the key cuts.
Luck!
 
Old keys and key code

Not all dealers are the same, some do only go back a certain amount of time. If you are one of the unlucky ones and your dealers in the area don't go back all the way then your choice is a locksmith. They can get the cuts a couple different ways. Yes, one way is by the codes on the passanger door lock and sometimes even on the glovebox lock. If it's a chipped key then they will charge about 30 for the key and 45 or so to program. You can add a key if you already have the original, it's an easy multi step process, press peddle, turn ignition, unlock locks
Etc.. If you don't have an original key you HAVE to have the locksmith program. They best way to get this done is if you have AAA insurance. Or know someone who does, and is willing to be on site when the key is made. If you go AAA route then most likely they will come to you and do the job, and give you a discount depending on the type of AAA membership you have. And a title in your name

Always when getting a brand new key cut you run the possibility of the key not fitting right anymore. New key old "wafers" I. The ignition, so I suggest you just take it to a locksmith and have them put new wafers in the ignition, (minus the split ones) and a locksmith can explain why that's a good idea. Also while he is replacing the wafers he now knows the key cuts and can easily cut a new key. Last thing you want to do is write the key cuts down on some files you keep for your rig, then whenever you want a new key or you lose a key you can just tell them to cut a 3,4,2,4,3,1 cut key, and be done with it.

Also the only way you get good cuts is if the ignition has never been changed, only if all equipment is original will the code on the locks help In getting the key cuts.
Luck!

Most complete applicable answer I've heard.

Believe me, I could post the Toyota Customer Service response about the 10 year only availability, and I checked the only 2 Dealers within 20 miles of my location, but it appears that I MAY have to go the locksmith route, running in the $100-150 cost range.

thanks
 
The dealer I went to logged onto the toyota corp website and entered a special managers code and retrieved my key code. Then he printed out my build sheet. I was right beside him when he got it.

On a side note the fresh cut key may not work right out of the box from years of key material and dirt jamming up the tumblers.

In my case It took brake cleaner and spray lube to get the key to operate all the locks but drivers door. Since that lock didn't work since purchase I had to remove it and take lock apart and remove the tumbler barrel and free them up.
 

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